What Is Minimum Wage?

The federal minimum wage is $7.25/hour (unchanged since 2009). However, 30+ states and many cities set higher minimums. Notable 2026 minimums: California $16.00, New York $16.00, Washington $16.28, Massachusetts $15.00. Tipped employees have a federal minimum of $2.13/hour, with tips expected to bring total compensation to at least $7.25. If they don't, the employer must make up the difference. Always check your local minimum — it's often higher than the state rate.

Where You'll See Minimum Wage

Related Terms

Generate a paystub showing Minimum Wage clearly with our free paystub generator, or browse the full payroll glossary (44+ terms explained).

Free Paystub Generator — Create Professional Pay Stubs in 60 Seconds (2026)

BestPaystubGen is the #1 trusted free pay stub generator for small business owners, freelancers, independent contractors, gig workers, and self-employed professionals across all 50 US states. Generate IRS-compliant paystubs in under 60 seconds with accurate 2026 federal income tax, FICA (Social Security + Medicare), state income tax, and local tax calculations — no software, no signup, free preview.